Hyperlite Mountain Gear: Junction 55L

It’s time to ditch your bulky backpack. The heavily framed pack your dad has been using isn’t making your trips easier. Today, backpacks have a minimal design, unlike the conventional packs of the past. This minimal design saves weight, is durable, and is versatile. Weight and versatility come from its top-down design. Removing the conventional “brain” from the top of the pack allows the hiker to carry around less pack material and pack down their backpack to the size the hiker is carrying. This feature turns the Hyperlite into a multi-night or day trip backpack.

Hyperlite also builds its packs to last. It uses Dyneema, which is waterproof and rugged. The Hardline external pockets make the Junction special compared to Hyperlite’s other packs. These Dyneema external pockets protect the pack from getting torn up by the snaggly limbs and branches a hiker will encounter on the trail.

I’ve had my pack for two years and countless trips. It keeps my gear dry in the rain and deflects even the meanest Manzanita bush from damaging my pack. The mesh pocket on the back is stretchable but firm enough not to lose its integrity from overuse.

Hyperlite also sells accessory items that can elevate your pack’s versatility. I have added a water bottle holder to my right shoulder strap and a shoulder pocket to my left shoulder strap. This allows me to store my tent in an external pocket or even add more water on those long stretches requiring water carries. The shoulder strap pocket gives me easy access to my phone when navigating, even fitting a power bank to keep my phone charged.

I recommend the Hyperlite Junction 55L pack to those hikers who appreciate the versatility and mobility the ultra-light pack brings to the backpacking experience.